Lohegaon Airport Encroachments Raise Concerns Over National Security, Aviation Safety and Environment
by Bhavna SJ Alleged Prohibited encroachments, unauthorised land filling, obstruction of natural water channels and indiscriminate dumping of construction debris and municipal waste has come to light within the restricted zone surrounding the Indian Air Force (IAF) Station and Lohegaon Airport in Pune. The issue has raised significant concerns over national security, aviation safety, environmental degradation and possible violations of defence regulations. According to information available, illegal encroachments have continued unabated despite repeated representations made by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to various civic and administrative authorities. Reports indicate that the IAF has repeatedly written to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and the District Collector, Pune, seeking immediate intervention to remove encroachments, clear illegally dumped construction debris and restore the area’s natural drainage system...